Frequently Asked Questions

Product Catalog/Model Numbers

What does the "600" designation mean in the catalog number (for example: Model # 690-01 versus 90-01)?

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The 600 Series catalog/model numbers are our way of indicating that the valve is a reduced port valve versus a full port valve.

What does the "X" designation at the beginning of a model number mean (such as X144)?

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The "X" designation means that the product is a retrofittable accessory for a Cla-Val Automatic Control Valve. Accessory products such as the X144 e-FlowMeter™ can be specified on a new valve or retrofitted to an installed valve in the field, usually without removal of the valve from the pipeline. Each accessory adds functionality to the valve itself or enhances system performance. Most Cla-Val Automatic Control Valves can be retrofitted with electronic accessories such as electronic pilots, the e-FlowMeter™, the new X145 e-Display or X143 Series Power generators to significantly enhance what can be achieved with a standard hydraulic control valve.

What are my options for product training?

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You have two options for product training: (1) At a Cla-Val Training Center or (2) At your own facility or jobsite. Cla-Val Training Centers are located the global headquarters foundry/factory complex in Costa Mesa, California; as well as Cla-Val Canada; Cla-Val Europe; Cla-Val UK and Cla-Val France. To arrange for training, please call or email the salesman/sales agent for your area using the information in the CONTACT US section.

Where can I get installation, operation and maintenance information?

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All new Cla-Val Automatic Control Valves are shipped with a Technical Manual that contains information on Installation, Operation and Maintenance for the valve. This manual is based on the valve catalog/model number. You can also download it from our website by doing a simple catalog/model number query in the SEARCH field above and clicking on the link titled "IOM/Technical Manual"

What are the flow direction options in a Cla-Val Automatic Control Valve?

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The Hytrol main valve is a two-way flow modified globe pattern valve. Flow direction is described relative to the valve seat. Pilot system orientation and operation of the Hytrol valve remains the same regardless of the flow orientation of the main valve. Flow options include: normal flow, reverse flow, two-way flow and return flow, all of which are described below.

What is "normal" flow?

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Normal flow through the main valve is described as "up and over the seat". When valve is closing, it is against the flow and the forces are considered balanced.

What is "reverse" flow?

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Reverse flow through the main valve is described as "over the seat and down". When valve is closing it is with the flow and the forces are considered unbalanced. When the main valve diaphragm wears out, the diaphragm assembly will go to the closed position ("fail closed"). This main valve option is primarily used with fueling valve applications and check valves.

How is" two-way" flow achieved?

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Two-way flow is controlled using components in the pilot system, which allow the valve to control in both directions of flow through the main valve. Pilot controls can be different or the same in each flow direction. A typical application of two way flow is the 210 Series Altitude valve. Here the term "two-way" is used to describe flow for applications where tank filling and discharge go through the same valve. The discharge flow from the tank often is referred to as "return" flow.

How is" return" flow achieved?

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Return flow is controlled using components in the pilot system, which allow the valve to open whenever the inlet pressure is less than the outlet pressure. Initially, the valve will be very slightly open at initial shift in pressure differential and will gradually go more open as the differential increases. This function overrides all other functions in pilot system. Components are same as check feature.

How can I quickly determine the head loss across a Cla-Val Automatic Pressure Reducing Valve?

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The simplest way is to subtract the discharge pressure from the inlet pressure at a given rate. Pressure information can be easily accessed by equipping your Cla-Val Pressure Reducing Valve with the retrofittable X141 Pressure Gauge on the inlet and outlet.